Stay Out of Your Boss’ Political Minefields

I often talk about steering clear of talking politics in the workplace because you never know who you might offend.  This is especially relevant during a presidential election year, when everyone has an opinion and doesn’t hesitate to share it.  Kris Dunn over at the HR Capitalist has some useful tips on how to avoid an uncomfortable conversation with a boss who might be of the opposite political persuasion.

Keep Your Strongest Views Private:  I know, I know, you've got the first amendment on your side.  Doesn't matter, there's no reason to risk falling out of favor because you've got a strong opinion about Iraq, public transit, taxes, etc.  Stick to pop culture, your family and sports.

Tell the Boss You Like to Vote Issues, Not By Party Line: It's true for most of us, and it makes you look like a deep thinker.  Warning: you'll likely have to engage in discussion of said issues.  That means you'll have to back that deep thinker tag up.

Don't Recruit In the Workplace: If you're keeping your strongest views private with the boss, you probably don't want to have the McCain or Obama bumper sticker in your cube or car, or actively participate in across-the-cube banter about how the other party stinks.

Stay Classy When You Get Good Results:  Even if you don't follow the first three rules, never rub the nose of the boss in results negative to his/her professed set of views.  Talking about recent polls, negative events for the party of the boss, and god forbid - election results going your way instead of the bosses - can put you to the back of the depth chart quicker than anything else.

When you think of your first amendment rights, you are absolutely correct.  You have them, and that's a pretty cool thing about America.  With that said, learn from the Dixie Chicks - you can say whatever you want to say, but at the end of the day, people can listen and decide to disengage with you professionally.  Don't put yourself in the crossfire.  Take Kid Rock's advice, and be a moderate in the workplace.

Comments

[Josh Russo]

You know, I've been amazed at how much the political fight for moral high ground impacts my attitude about people. And that's the bottom line in this conversation.

Despite my efforts to think fairly, if I'm your boss you might already be coming from behind as I question your basic intellectual honesty or capacity based on my belief that you've been duped by your candidate of choice. How terrible is that? I feel kinda bad about it.

[Erika with Qvisory]

I agree, politics is extremely difficult to discuss civilly in America and you never know how your opinions will affect your boss' perception of your intelligence and potential.

[Mark Olsen]

I agree - and disagree.
Yes, do try to keep politics out of the office. But, there is no issue whatsoever in having a bumper sticker, a personal blog (which the boss may know of) or something else that is done out of the office - such as driving.
If you think I drive what I drive or stick a bumper sticker on my car or not based on what the boss thinks - I don't think so.
We all must have jobs - but, we do not have to agree with everything our CEO or other bosses do and they don't have to agree with us. We can still be highly productive and valuable without having to get the bosses approval on everything in our lives. Many of us work for bosses who we don't like at all - we just put up with them in order to gain experience and a paycheck.

[Alexandra Levit]

Josh, ah, a can of worms isn't it? Bosses might be negatively impacted by your beliefs and not even realize it. Thanks for commenting!

Erika, I know, I've tried. But I feel so strongly about this election that most times I find it's safer just to keep my mouth shut.

Mark, I agree with your point about advocating your beliefs outside of work. That's your right, absolutely, and your workplace shouldn't define who you are. I just think there's no need to call your boss' attention to them unnecessarily.